A practical guide to EPSO AD5 Graduates 2026: deadlines, tests, study plan, and how to prepare for reasoning, EU Knowledge, digital skills and the EUFTE tests.
Preparing for the EPSO AD5 Graduate Administrators competition is easier when you focus on the essentials first, what the competition requires, what the tests look like, and what a realistic preparation plan involves. With 1,490 places on the reserve list, the 2026 AD5 “Graduates” competition is one of the biggest entry points into a permanent EU career in years. Despite the “graduate” label, eligibility is degree-based: if you have at least a Bachelor’s degree, you can apply regardless of work experience.
In this guide, you’ll learn how the AD5 selection process works, what each test measures, how to prepare efficiently, and how to build a practical study approach that prioritises what to do first (and what to leave until later).
Key facts (quick check)
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Application deadline: 10 March 2026
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Eligibility: EU citizenship + at least a Bachelor’s degree
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Tests: Reasoning (verbal, numerical, abstract), EU knowledge, digital skills, EUFTE written test
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Languages: Tests are taken in two languages (Language 1 and Language 2, as defined in the Notice of Competition)
Before you start, update your EU Training profile with your competition details to receive tailored updates, reminders about the 10 March 2026 application deadline, and exclusive discounts.
Getting started: rules, deadlines, and the Notice of Competition
Good preparation begins with the right mindset and a clear understanding of the rules.
- Master the Notice of Competition (NoC): This is your legally binding manual. Read it to understand eligibility, such as EU citizenship, a Bachelor’s degree (of at least three years) awarded by 30 September 2026. Watch our free AD5 explainer webinar where András Baneth breaks down the NoC.
- Strategy and Mindset: Watch the Exam Preparation Mastery webinar with András if you need help organising your study time, ideally starting 10–12 weeks in advance and manage exam-day stress.
- Join the Community: Do not prepare in isolation. Join the AD5 Facebook group or EU Training Forum to share insights, debunk rumours, and stay informed alongside fellow candidates.
The 4 blocks of EPSO AD5 preparation
Block 1: Reasoning Skills (The Foundation)
Reasoning tests assess your cognitive abilities rather than your knowledge. Because accuracy under time pressure is the greatest challenge, you must move beyond finding the right answer to finding it quickly.
- Verbal Reasoning: (20 questions in 35 mins). This carries a high weight in both the preliminary and final scores. Pass mark is 10/20
- Numerical & Abstract Reasoning: Combined passmark is 10/20. They are mandatory hurdles you must clear to stay in the competition.
How to prepare for the reasoning skills tests
Free: Start with the EPSO official site for sample tests in all 24 languages to familiarise yourself with the interface. If you're new to reasoning skills watch our free methodology webinars to understand the concept. And read our trainers articles to learn tips and tricks.
Paid: Invest in Reasoning Test Bundles to practice on a platform similar to the real exam. Attend Live Reasoning Skills Workshops to stress-test your methodology and fix bad habits in real time with an expert trainer. Try Personal Coaching for even more personalised approach to preparation.
Skill Boosters: Use speed-reading and mental maths apps to improve your processing speed under pressure.
Block 2: The Knowledge Block
How to prepare for the EU Knowledge test and the Digital literacy skills test
Unlike reasoning, these multiple-choice tests are about what you know. Both are taken in Language 2 and together account for 50% of your final score.
- EU Knowledge Test: (30 questions in 40 mins). You must understand the "trunk and branches" of the EU: institutions, history, law, and major policies like the digital economy and climate change.
- Digital Skills Test: (40 questions in 30 mins). This assesses digital literacy based on the DigComp framework, targeting general administrative competency rather than IT specialisation.
Free Resources: Review free policy briefings and the Europass digital skills tool to establish your baseline.
Paid Resources: Read The Ultimate EU Handbook and use the EU Course (video and audio lessons) to build your core EU Knowledge.
Extra tips: Stay up-to-date with news and insights. Supplement your study by reading Politico Playbook, and Parliament Eurobarometer surveys to understand current EU priorities.
Block 3: The Communication Block (EUFTE Written Test)
The EU Free-Text Essay (EUFTE) is not a test of EU facts, but of your written communication skills.
The Format: You will receive a background document approximately two weeks before the exam. On test day, you have 40 minutes to complete a written assignment based on it in Language 2.
The Scoring: Assessors mark your essay based on specific "anchors" such as clarity, structure, and audience awareness.
How to prepare for the EPSO AD5 EUFTE:
Free: Read articles like "8 Steps to Ace the EPSO Written Test" and listen to the “A Peek Behind EU Careers” podcast.
Paid: Watch our EUFTE webinar to learn the methodology and complete an EUFTE simulation using documents similar to the real exam, with evaluation from a real EUFTE evaluator. For extra practice and personalised feedback, add EUFTE simulations with expert human evaluation, and strengthen your writing in our Clear Writing Workshops or one-to-one Personal Coaching.
Beyond Exam Prep: Wellbeing and Strategy
Preparation is not just about books; it is about sustaining your performance over several months.
- Ambassador Networks: Connect with national EPSO ambassador networks at universities for local info sessions.
- Wellbeing: Use productivity apps like Notion or Pomodoro timers to stay focused. Read the free Managing Exam Stress e-book to keep your nerves steady during the remote testing process.
- Reserve List Strategy: Once you pass, attend webinars on Reserve List Strategy to learn how to proactively lobby for a job and tailor your CV for recruiters.
You don’t need to do it all, but you should be aware of what is available. Even signing up for one free newsletter or joining a peer group can give you the clarity and confidence needed to succeed.
Wishing you the best of luck! If you are unsure which path is right for you, contact our customer support team for a personalised study plan. Follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our newsletters to get the best EPSO insights directly in your inbox.